Programme 2: Determinants of musculoskeletal health in the mid-lifecourse

The programme tracks how mechanical and non-mechanical environments shape musculoskeletal health during midlife, and whether that determines a person's ability to keep working and age healthily. Why this matters: Musculoskeletal problems are a major reason people leave the workforce early, yet the specific factors in midlife that tip someone from healthy function into chronic pain or disability remain poorly understood. The programme fills that gap by linking detailed health data with occupational exposures. Potential impact: If the research identifies which workplace or lifestyle factors most strongly predict later musculoskeletal decline, employers and policymakers could target interventions earlier — redesigning jobs, adjusting hours, or providing preventive support. The programme has already informed UK government policy, including evidence to the Work and Pensions Select Committee on the disability employment gap and the Green Paper “Work, health and disability: Improving Lives”. The Health and Employment After Fifty cohort study is now being used by the Joint Health and Work Unit for policy development. Success here could help more people stay in work longer and reduce the burden of musculoskeletal ill health in later life.